South Africa is morning the loss of jazz great  Pat Matshikiza. He has died at age 76 in Durban, a senior official said on Saturday. “We wish to offer our condolences to the family, friends and, above all, the music fraternity, especially jazz,” Arts and Culture Ministry spokesperson Sandile Memela said.

“Matshikiza is widely remembered in the country for ‘Tshona,’ his infectious and danceable collaboration with Kippie Moeketsi, another South African musical icon,” reports Star Africa.

“His recording of “Tshona,” featuring extraordinaire saxophonist Kippie Moeketsi, established indigenous jazz music as the most distinctive sound outside of America,” Memela said.

“His resilience saw him integrate into the hotel scene where he was acknowledged and recognised by fellow artists and patrons for his skill and talent,” Memela said, adding that the late musician’s funeral programme is yet to be announced.